Sofia, Bulgaria – Borislav Mihaylov, the celebrated goalkeeper who captained Bulgaria’s national team to a historic fourth-place finish at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, has died at the age of 63. The Bulgarian Football Union confirmed his passing on Tuesday, marking a somber moment for football fans in the country and beyond.
Mihaylov passed away in Sofia after suffering a stroke several months prior, according to reports from Nova TV. His death brings an end to a distinguished career both on the pitch and in football administration.
Borislav Mihaylov in action during the 1994 World Cup. He was a key figure in Bulgaria’s surprising run to the semi-finals.
Photo: DANIEL GARCIA / EPA TT NYHETSBYRÅN
Mihaylov’s name is inextricably linked to Bulgaria’s remarkable performance at the 1994 World Cup in the United States. As captain, he led a team that upset Argentina in the group stage – a victory made all the more significant given Diego Maradona’s recent suspension – and ultimately reached the semi-finals. He was particularly lauded for his penalty-saving heroics in the Round of 16 shootout against Mexico, stopping two spot-kicks to secure Bulgaria’s passage to the next round. That performance cemented his status as a national hero.
Beyond the World Cup, Mihaylov enjoyed a lengthy club career, playing for Levski Sofia, Belenenses, Mulhouse, Reading, Botev Plovdiv, Slavia Sofia and FC Zürich. He made over 330 club appearances throughout his career, showcasing his consistency and longevity as a professional footballer. Reading FC acknowledged his passing with a statement on X (formerly Twitter), expressing their condolences to his friends and family.
Mihaylov’s influence extended beyond his playing days. He served as president of the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) for an impressive 16 years (2005-2019) and then again from 2021-2023, becoming the longest-serving president in the organization’s history. He was also a member of the executive committee of UEFA, demonstrating his involvement in the broader European football landscape. His leadership within the BFU was marked by periods of both progress and controversy, but his dedication to Bulgarian football remained unwavering.
He earned 102 caps for the Bulgarian national team, making him one of the most capped players in the nation’s history, second only to Stiliyan Petrov. His leadership and shot-stopping ability were instrumental in Bulgaria’s successes during the 1990s, a golden era for the national team. He captained the side during their participation in UEFA Euro 1996 as well, further solidifying his legacy.
Tributes have poured in from across the football world. Hristo Stoichkov, the former Barcelona and Ballon d’Or winner, expressed his grief on social media, remembering Mihaylov as a “great man and a great goalkeeper.” Stoichkov also recalled the close bond they shared with another Bulgarian football icon, Trifon Ivanov, who passed away in 2016, suggesting Mihaylov had now reunited with him. Maria Petrova, Mihaylov’s widow, also shared emotional messages online, expressing her gratitude for their life together.
The circumstances surrounding Mihaylov’s death are particularly poignant. According to BGNES News Agency, he had been in an induced coma since last year due to a brain clot. His passing marks the end of an era for Bulgarian football, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill.
Borislav Mihaylov’s story is one of dedication, leadership, and national pride. He will be remembered not only for his exceptional goalkeeping skills but also for his unwavering commitment to Bulgarian football. His impact on the sport in his country will be felt for generations to come.
The Bulgarian Football Union has yet to announce details regarding a memorial service. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
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